Last verified 04/26
The Tuggerah Lakes Cycleway is a great choice for families on the Central Coast. The flat, well-kept path stretches for 12 kilometres from The Entrance, following the lake's edge through Long Jetty to Chittaway Bay.
Along the way you will find playgrounds, picnic spots, barbecues and the well-known Long Jetty. You do not have to ride the whole 12 kilometres. Many families turn back at Saltwater Creek Reserve, about 4 kilometres from The Entrance, making it a relaxed half day outing.
For more experienced cyclists the path links to a larger network. Crossing The Entrance Bridge to the north adds another 4 kilometres toward Magenta, and the route continues around the lake through Toukley, the Wyong River and Tuggerah back to Chittaway Bay. Most of the loop uses dedicated cycleways with only a few short sections on quiet local streets.
The Route
Begin your ride at Memorial Park in The Entrance. The path starts at Picnic Point, where you will find a skate park overlooking the lake, a great spot for older kids to enjoy before setting off.
The path is shared so keep to the left.
When you reach Long Jetty you will see the famous 351 metre jetty stretching over Tuggerah Lake. It is worth stopping to walk to the end. Next to the jetty there is a small beach with seats facing the water. If you visit in the late afternoon the sunset over the lake is especially beautiful from here.
After the jetty continue past Watkins Jetty and Parrys Jetty as you follow the lake. The path winds through peaceful spots with lovely water views before you arrive at Saltwater Creek Reserve.
Saltwater Creek Reserve features a fully fenced playground, climbing equipment and a BMX track. Across the main road there is another playground with a climbing rocket. You will also find picnic tables and barbecues throughout the area. For families with young children this is a good place to turn back. The 4 kilometre ride from The Entrance to here and back is manageable and still includes the jetty and the best of the lake views.
If your children still have energy you can keep riding from Saltwater Creek Reserve along the lake to Chittaway Bay before returning to The Entrance.
Cafes at Long Jetty
If you’d like to stop for coffee or a bite to eat, Long Jetty has a good range of cafes along The Entrance Road, just a short detour from the bike path.
Mr Sha Sha’s serves coffee, breakfast and freshly made meals like eggs benedict, pancakes and breakfast burgers.
Green Tangerine is an artisan bakery cafe offering house made sourdough, pastries and specialty coffee from The Little Marionette. A good stop if you want something to take away and enjoy by the lake.
Bike Hire
If you do not have your own bikes, self service bike hire is available in the waterfront mall near the Vera Water Garden at The Entrance. The stations work like vending machines. Insert a card, choose a bike and it unlocks for you. Local businesses nearby provide helmets and bike locks. The hire stations are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Getting There
Free parking is available next to The Entrance Visitor Information Centre at 46 Marine Parade, which is the best place to start a family ride. For the full loop, Chittaway Bay and Tuggerah Railway Station are also convenient starting points depending on where you are coming from.